Masks have a clear observable effect in stopping the spread of COVID-19. However, wearing only masks won't stop the pandemic entirely. Practicing personal hygiene, social distancing, and lockdowns will help too. Here's a chance for you, dear reader, to research these ideas yourself and see how effective they are in stopping COVID-19. There'll be links at the end that I hope will inform you about them as much as this guide has informed you about masks.
Stopping this pandemic depends on your actions today. Whether you'll wash your hands or decide to wear a mask when you go out. If enough people wear masks, wash their hands, practice social distancing, and generally just be safe around other people, we can stop this pandemic.